A professor from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore gave a talk at MBZUAI about "Just-Noticeable Difference (JND)" models in visual intelligence. The talk covered visual JND models, research and applications, and future opportunities for JND modeling. JND can help tackle big data challenges with limited resources by focusing on user-centric and green systems. Why it matters: Exploring JND could lead to advancements in AI applications related to visual signal processing, image synthesis, and generative AI in the region.
KAUST researchers, in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University, have discovered a unique chiral structure in gold nanowires. The nanowires exhibit a Boerdijk-Coxeter-Bernal (BCB) helix structure, achieved through a seed-mediated substrate growth method, reaching a minimum diameter of 3 nanometers. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) at KAUST was crucial in revealing the structure. Why it matters: This breakthrough in chiral metallic nanowire production could lead to advancements in chemical separation, sensing, and catalysis due to the unique properties of chiral crystals.
KAUST President Tony Chan will participate in a panel discussion titled 'Between East and West' on October 15. The panel will include Eng Chye Tan, President of the National University of Singapore, and Da Hsuan Feng, a theoretical physicist. The discussion will focus on challenges and opportunities in leading institutions in the 21st century, with a focus on the global higher education landscape. Why it matters: The event provides insights into KAUST's role in bridging Eastern and Western academic perspectives and its efforts to navigate the evolving global education landscape.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) hosted an international undergraduate poster competition attracting 191 students from around the world. 32 shortlisted finalists presented their research at KAUST, representing top universities like MIT, Stanford, and the National University of Singapore. The winners were announced at an awards ceremony on January 21, with Qin Xiang Ng from the National University of Singapore taking first place. Why it matters: The WEP poster competition provides a platform for international students to showcase their research and engage with KAUST's research community, fostering collaboration and attracting talent to the university.
KAUST Professor Hussain was awarded the Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award (OYTEX) by the University of Texas (UT). Hussain studied at UT from 2003-2005 and later founded KAUST's Integrated Nanotechnology Laboratory in 2009. His work includes 15 patents, 18 research awards, and recognition from Intel and Samsung. Why it matters: The award recognizes the impact of KAUST faculty and their contributions to nanotechnology research, highlighting KAUST's growing prominence in the field.
A KAUST project on "Hybrid Multi-Effect Adsorption Desalination" won the Global Technology Challenge at the Saudi Water & Power Forum. The competition, launched by Aramco Entrepreneurship and GE ecomagination, focused on seawater desalination using renewable energy. KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC) is partnering with the National University of Singapore (NUS) to bring this technology to Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This award highlights innovation in desalination, a critical area for Saudi Arabia given its high salinity seawater and need for sustainable water solutions.
Former KAUST President Professor Choon Fong Shih was presented with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) Centennial Medal by Harvard University in May. Shih received his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Harvard in 1973 and was recognized for his contributions to knowledge and society. He served as the founding president of KAUST from 2008 and previously held positions at the National University of Singapore and GE Corporate Research Lab. Why it matters: The award recognizes the impact of a key figure in KAUST's early development and highlights the university's connection to globally recognized researchers and institutions.